Grande Riviere is one of the most northern villages at the top side of Trinidad. It’s well known for its yearly visits by female leatherback turtles returning home to lay their eggs on the very same beach they were born on. One of the few safe havens on earth they can do so freely and undisturbed. It’s also home to one of my favourite eco villas on the island – Acajou Hotel. The drive to Acajou is 2.5 hours from Port of Spain and gets a little rough once you pass Big Bay Beach and San Souci but the views you’re privy to while on the drive are absolutely breathtaking. You’d definitely find yourself taking longer than expected if you’re the type to stop for photos. But enough jibber jabber, you want to know what I think of it right? Well. Its amazing. End Blog. No really, it makes the perfect weekend retreat and in both times I’ve been lucky to visit, I didn’t want to leave.
Image: A hidden waterfall on the roadside
Road conditions can be a bit sketchy during the rainy season. So low vehicles be warned, you will feel it in your suspension but it’s not too bad that you’d want to turn back. Just take it easy because rainy season conditions can bring fallen trees and power lines. When you arrive you’ll quickly realize what’s so special about this place. You’re almost completely surrounded by numerous types of plants, shaded under a canopy of trees and will definitely be greeted by quite a few birds as you take your first stroll. I’m no bird watcher but I can see why birders from all around world love coming here.
Once you get yourself checked in it would be a good time to stretch those legs and maybe take a walk down to the river or the beach itself.
Accommodation
All of the rooms are self-contained cabins built from wood. While they may all look similar from the outside, they are all unique on the interior side. My first stay there some years back was in the loft style family cabin which can sleep 4 persons (1 King, 2 Single) and has an outdoor porch with a hammock. All of the other cabins are double occupancy and have WiFi access (although a bit slow) refrigerator, tea/coffee station, hot water and quite a few electrical outlets.
For a lot of us, when deciding on a getaway location, privacy is key and privacy you shall receive. None of the villas are in view of each other thanks to some strategically planted trees and huge ferns that make you feel nicely tucked away. You do also have some distance between your neighbours but I think the sound can still travel if you’re loud enough *cough*
Complimentary local breakfast is included with your booking and the restaurant is open everyday. At the time of writing this, we are now opening things back up from Covid-19 so I’m not sure what the lunch situation might be now.
Honestly, if you do decide to stay at Acajou I know you won’t regret it. It has everything you’d need for that eco-vacation getaway you’ve been dying to have with plenty to offer in the surrounding areas as well. Be sure to check out their website to book at www.acajoutrinidad.com or find them on Instagram @acajouTrinidad
